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By Rod Reich
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Whether it be a cornfield in Illinois, a citrus grove in Florida, or an Alfalfa field in Kansas - today’s expectations on yield quantity and quality are at levels that were unthinkable 10-15 years ago. Farmers and growers respond to these expectations by increasing their NPK applications, but often neglect micronutrients. The yield increases not only strip the soil of the traditional NPK’s, but also the often overlooked micro and macro nutrients such as Calcium, Copper, Boron, Zinc, Manganese, Magnesium, Molybdenum and Iron. All of which are proven essential to reach desired yields. These elements are often found naturally in the soil but due to continuous cropping, reserves are depleted without reintroduction from an outside source. More and more farmers and growers are seeing the benefits of soil and foliar applied micronutrients as a cost effective way for the crop to reach its full potential.
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Which application is right for me? Most often, applications will be determined by the appropriate testing. Do not rely exclusively on soil tests. Often, soil conditions - too wet, too dry, compacted, composition affect the availability of the nutrients to the plant. Tissue tests during the growing season can determine foliar applications to correct deficiencies as well. The ideal fertilizer program would contain both a soil applied micronutrient (Brandt EDTA’s) and foliar applications throughout the growing season (Brandt’s Manni-Plex Technology). Many of these products are compatible with pesticide applications, therefore additional trips over the crop is not needed.
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Are they that important? YES. Many and most micronutrients play a specific role in plant health, therefore effecting crop yield and quality. For example, NPK levels might be adequate, but a Boron deficiency in corn leads to stunted ears (rosetting) with less grain fill due to poor pollination by lack of proper flower development. As well as, loss of citrus and nuts in orchards and groves and brittle stems and fruit quality (hollow heart) in fruits and vegetables. Boron is essential at fruit and flower set and carbohydrate metabolism.
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Why add another input? The plant needs it. For many reasons micronutrient deficiencies are becoming more widespread. Because recommended rates are low and they can be applied with NPK’s or pesticides, in most cases, the additional cost per acre is very minimal and the end result will most likely be a positive return on your investment.
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| Agronomically and economically, micronutrients play an important role for optimum crop yield and quality giving the farmer and/or grower the best possible growing conditions available. |
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